More than 56% of the operator’s bookings for 2021 are for Indian Ocean destinations – with the Maldives the most popular, followed by Mauritius and Sri Lanka.

Kuoni said it was aiming to cement itself as “the original Indian Ocean specialist” with more handpicked resorts, exclusively negotiated offers and expertise to help create bespoke itineraries. 

Sheena Paton, senior product and purchasing manager at Kuoni, said: “Bookings for the Indian Ocean, particularly the Maldives, are outperforming every other destination we sell around the world… the Maldives has always been our best seller but it’s soaring even further ahead right now.”

In the destination, Kuoni is adding wellness-focused Kagi Maldives Spa Island to its programme. The resort in North Male Atoll features 50 villas all with private pools. Another addition for the Maldives is the Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa – described as “a great new option for families looking for a luxury secluded escape”.

In Sri Lanka, a new sailing option with the 10-cabin Ocean Diamond boat has been introduced - offering short cruises along the coast, with sailings able to be added to bespoke itineraries.

Kuoni is also adding two smaller hotels in less visited areas along the south east coast, known for its surfing, Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing and "eco-chic" retreat Jetwing Surf.

Both properties feature a “handful” of rooms but have been chosen to open up itineraries to the unexplored shorelines of the south east coast. 

In Northern Sri Lanka, Kuoni has added Jetwing Jaffna, while elsewhere on the island, the Grand Hotel Sri Lanka Nuwara Eliya features a sustainability programme including recycling centre, herb and vegetable gardens and tree-planting programme. 

In Mauritius, two new resorts join the programme - the Lux Le Morne, next to the eponymous mountain – and the Anantara Iko Beach Resort has been chosen for its remote on the border of the Blue Bay Marine Park.

Patton added: “By visiting the destination ourselves on a regular basis, we’re able to spot new hotels, hidden gems which have had a refresh and even sailing ships which we think our customers will love and ensure that we’re the ‘go-to’ company for all things Indian Ocean to suit a wide range of budgets.”